Ultimate Guide to Buying a USB-C Device

Your Guide to buying the best USB-C

Overview

USB-C is an increasingly popular technology that is becoming the industry standard for charging and connecting devices. With the right knowledge, you can easily make the best purchase for your needs. This buying guide will provide you with all the information you need to understand the technology and make an informed decision when purchasing USB-C products. You will learn about the different types of USB-C ports, the features and specifications to consider, and what to look for when shopping for USB-C accessories. By the end of this guide, you will be an expert on USB-C and have the confidence to make the right purchase.

Key features

  1. Type of Device - USB-C connectors and cables come in a variety of standards, making it important to determine which type of USB-C connector is compatible with the device being connected.
  2. Data Transfer Rate - The data transfer rate of USB-C cables will determine how quickly data can transfer between connected devices.
  3. Power Delivery - Many USB-C cables are capable of delivering power, making them capable of charging devices like laptops, phones, and tablets.
  4. Durability - The durability of the USB-C cable is important as cables need to be able to withstand the wear and tear of frequent use.
  5. Length - USB-C cables come in a variety of lengths, so it is important to select the appropriate length for the needs of the user.
  6. Compatibility - The compatibility of the USB-C cable is important as it will determine which devices it can be connected to.

See the most popular USB-C on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Faster Data Transfer - USB-C has a much faster data transfer rate than traditional USB, allowing for faster file transfers and downloads.
  • More Compact - USB-C is smaller and more compact than the previous USB generations, taking up less space and allowing for easier portability.
  • Universally Compatible - USB-C is universally compatible with all other USB devices, so users don't have to worry about compatibility issues when buying new USB-C accessories.
  • Increased Power Delivery - USB-C offers higher power delivery than its predecessors, so users can charge their devices faster and more efficiently.
  • Reversible Connectors - With USB-C, the connector is reversible, meaning it can be plugged in either direction, eliminating the hassle of having to check for the correct orientation.

Cons

  • Compatibility Issues: USB-C is not always compatible with devices that use earlier USB standards, such as USB 2.0 or USB 3.0.
  • Misuse Potential: USB-C ports are small and closely spaced, so it is possible to plug the wrong type of cable or device into the wrong port, which can cause damage.
  • Power Output Limitations: USB-C cables are limited in their power output, usually supplying just 3A of current, which can limit the types of devices that can be powered by USB-C.
  • Cost: USB-C cables and accessories can be more expensive than those for older USB standards.

Best alternatives

  1. Lightning Cables - Apple's proprietary alternative to USB-C cables, used in iPhones, iPads, and iPods.
  2. Micro USB Cables - the older standard for USB connections, most commonly used with Android phones and non-Apple tablets.
  3. USB 2.0 - the original standard of USB cables, often used for slower data transfer speeds.
  4. USB 3.0 - the newer standard of USB cables that offers faster data transfer speeds.
  5. USB 3.1 - the latest USB standard, offering the fastest data transfer speeds.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • USB-C hub - A USB-C hub provides several ports, such as USB-A, HDMI, and Ethernet, for users to connect additional devices and peripherals to a device with USB-C.
  • USB-C to USB-A adapter - An adapter that converts USB-C to USB-A, so that USB-A devices can be connected to USB-C devices.
  • USB-C cables - USB-C cables come in a variety of lengths for connecting USB-C devices and charging them.
  • USB-C chargers - Chargers that are specifically designed to charge USB-C devices.
  • USB-C docks - Docking stations that allow multiple USB-C devices to be connected to one USB-C port.

Common questions

  1. What types of devices can be connected to USB-C? USB-C can be used to connect a variety of devices, including phones, tablets, laptops, cameras, external hard drives, and other peripherals.
  2. How does USB-C compare to other USB standards? USB-C is the latest USB standard and offers significant improvements over previous USB standards. It provides faster data transfer speeds, higher power delivery, and reversible plug orientation.
  3. What is a USB-C hub? A USB-C hub is a device that connects to a computer or other device using a USB-C connection and provides additional ports such as USB-A, HDMI, Ethernet, and others so that multiple devices can be connected.
  4. What is USB-C Power Delivery? USB-C Power Delivery (PD) is a protocol that enables USB-C devices to deliver up to 100W of power for charging and powering electronics.
  5. Are USB-C cables reversible? Yes, USB-C cables are reversible, meaning they can be connected in either orientation.
  6. Are USB-C cables interchangeable? Yes, USB-C cables are interchangeable and can be used to connect devices that support USB-C.
  7. Are there any additional features of USB-C? USB-C also supports Alternate Mode, which allows for the connection of additional, non-USB devices such as DisplayPort and Thunderbolt.

Trivia

In 2019, a man in the Netherlands accidentally bought a USB-C cable that was almost 5 miles long! The man had meant to buy a 2-meter cable, but unknowingly purchased a 9,600-meter cable instead. It was only when the package was delivered and he had to unroll the cable from the spool that he realized his mistake. He ended up donating the cable to a local school, which used it to power the school’s computers and other electronic devices. The story was reported by the BBC, and the cable is believed to be the world’s longest USB-C cable. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.